Paul's instructions to Timothy, a young co-laborer with the Apostle, were based upon the understanding that the Lord is coming soon even though history tells us that was not the case. Paul lived his life and ministry as if the Rapture could happen at any moment and especially in his lifetime.

This is evident in his statement, "we shall be caught up", in I Thessalonians 4:17. Therefore, his instructions to young Timothy were given with that urgency. In fact, Paul believes the "Rapture" is very close in his time as indicated in verse 1.

There were those who at Paul's time in history were departing from the faith. They were not only departing from the faith but were "giving heed", accepting, "seducing spirits", evil spirits and "doctrines of demons." Paul was sending Timothy to the churches the Apostle had started to warn them that the "Last Days" were upon them.

Timothy was to put the churches in remembrance of these things and then make sure they were being nourished in the Word and "good doctrine." Timothy was to help the churches exercise themselves in godliness. That was even better than physical exercise.

It is interesting to note the instructions to Timothy from Paul about his own personal study and application of true biblical doctrine, verse 6, 13 and 16. Timothy was to watch against the "doctrine of demons," verse 1.

Many people are afraid of "doctrine." They say "doctrine" divides and causes division in the “Body of Christ”. This is not correct. The Word of God which was "breathed" into the authors of the Bible, II Timothy 3:16, is "profitable for doctrine." The truth be known, the true doctrines from the Lord unites, it does not divide. Doctrine is the principles that the Lord gives to us to know His plan and direction in all matters.

Paul tells Timothy that he should be reading, meditating and continuing that which he had learned from Paul and then pass it along to others for their benefit. Remember, these instructions were given in light of the times in which they were living, "the latter times."

We are living in the "Last Days" and it would do us good to heed Paul's instructions to Timothy and appropriate them for ourselves.

PRAYER THOUGHT: Dear Lord, help me to discern true doctrine from Your Word, make it applicable to my life and share it with others on a daily basis.